Last updated on March 31st, 2022
Window frame repair cost guide
If your window frames have seen better days, you might want to look into getting them repaired. The first thing to do is check the warranty for your windows and then find a professional window installation and repair expert. In this guide, we’ll look into how much window frame repair costs on average so that you can manage your budget.
If your window frames have seen better days, you might want to look into getting them repaired. The first thing to do is check the warranty for your windows and then find a professional window installation and repair expert.
Window frame repairs often involve filling and repairing cracks, splits, and gaps. For more extensive damage, it may be necessary to remove and replace parts of the frame.
In this guide, we’ll look into how much window frame repair costs on average so that you can manage your budget.
Cost to repair a window frame
| Low cost | High cost | Average cost | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood frame repair | £107 | £237 | £172 |
| Vinyl frame repair | £164 | £364 | £264 |
| Aluminium frame repair | £127 | £310 | £218.50 |
| Frame removal costs | £54 | £145 | £99.50 |
| Window frame replacement cost | £145 | £437 | £291 |
| Trim repairs | £36 | £255 | £145.50 |
Our costs are ballpark averages – get a local tradesperson to quote now
Window frame repair costs in the UK are determined by a number of different factors. The size of the window and frame will affect the cost. Plus, the material the frame is made from. You will also need to consider the extent of the damage and the type of repair that is needed.
As you’d imagine, the more labour-intensive or complicated the repair, the more expensive the job will be.
On average though, you can expect to pay around £172 to repair a wood frame and £264 for a vinyl frame. Window frame repair costs for aluminium frames are around £218.
To get a more accurate quote, you may need to ask the window frame repair specialist for their hourly rate. The average cost for this kind of work is around £47 per hour. Once an expert has assessed the damage, they can estimate how long it’ll take to repair and the cost of the materials needed.
Wooden window frame repair cost
Wood window frame repairs cost £172 on average. This material is more likely to be affected by moisture, causing problems with mould, termites and eventually, rotting. These kinds of wood frames are commonly replaced with lower-maintenance vinyl, aluminium, or composite wood that resists moisture and rot.
Vinyl window frame repair cost
Vinyl window frame repairs cost £264 on average. A repair specialist will patch and colour match non-structural damage to vinyl window frames with gel. Other repairs include broken flanges, tracks, holes, scratches, discolourations, and bent vinyl frames.
Repairing aluminium window frames
Aluminium window frame repairs cost £218 on average. Broken frames are repaired by reglazing the frame with putty, replacing the sash, or cosmetic damages and scratches can be filled and repainted. Newer aluminium frames have a thermal break, which reduces thermal transfer and improves energy efficiency.
Window frame replacement cost
If your window frame is beyond repair, or the cost to repair it would be more than it’s worth then you’ll want to consider replacing the whole frame instead.
| Type of window | 600mm x 900mm | 900mm x 1200mm | 1200mm x 1200mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| uPVC | £200-£400 | £500-£650 | £650-£900 |
| Timber | £800-£1,000 | £1,250-£1,400 | £1,350-£1,550 |
| Aluminium | £550-£750 | £650-£850 | £750-£1,100 |
| Composite | £800-£1,600 | £2,000-£2,500 | £2,500-£3,000 |
The window frame replacement cost will depend on the size and material of the frame. Here are some average prices you can expect to pay to replace your window frame (including double glazing, installation and VAT):
- uPVC window frame – £200 – £900
- Timber – £800 – £1,550
- Aluminium – £550 – £1,100
- Composite – £800 – £3,000
Cost to replace rotted window frame
If your window frame has rotted, a repair may not be possible. In this case, window frame replacement may be necessary.
The cost of window frame replacement is around £145 to £437, not including the window. For smaller trim repairs, you can expect to pay between £37 and £255.
You might also want to look into the cost of replacing the glass in the window, if needed.
What is the cost to remove windows?
If your windows need replacing, the first step is to have the old ones taken out.
The average cost to remove old windows is £54 to £145 per window, including disposal fees. This project includes removing the casing, exterior trim and siding, fasteners, frame, finishes, or hardware.
Benefits of repairing a window frame
Why repair your window frames, instead of just replacing them? Here are just a few of the many reasons to consider it:
- It can be cheaper than getting new window frames installed.
- Many window frame cracks and other damage can be easily repaired from the outside – replacing the window would involve much more invasive and disruptive work.
- Repairing rather than replacing is the most environmentally friendly option
- A good repair job could extend the life of attractive original and period window frames.
Remember, you should always use an experienced professional for window frame repair and replacement. It’s a highly skilled job, requiring the right tools and great attention to detail. Attempt a DIY job and you could accidentally create more damage.
FAQs
When should a window frame be repaired or replaced?
It’s a good idea to arrange repair work if you notice minor wood-rotting issues, sill cracks, air drafts, or if the sill or frame starts to come out from the wall. Repairing damaged window frames and cracked caulking prevents rot, mould, water leaks, air drafts, shrinkage, and reduces the chances of needing replacement.
When should I replace a window frame?
You should replace window frames when they are leaking water, severely damaged by rot, causing foggy glass, or if the glass is broken. Press a screwdriver into the wood to see if it goes in easily. If so, the wood is rotting and needs replacing. Replacing the frames and windows with eco-friendly materials ensures lower energy costs.
How long does window frame repair take?
It mainly depends on the amount of damage to the frame and the repair work needed. Smaller cracks can be filled in just a couple of hours, whereas bigger problems could take days to fix. It often depends on whether the issue can be addressed with the window frame in situ, or whether it needs to be removed and taken away to a specialist workshop for repair.
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